Members of a sporting organisation have been bowled over by recognition for their services to the sport.

The officials have umpired and scored in a range of leagues in the North East including the Durham Senior League, Durham County League, Durham Coast League, Northumberland and Tyenside Senior League, North East Durham League, North East Premier League and the newly formed Durham Cricket League.

Chairman of the Durham Cricket Board Association of Cricket Officials, Paul Jordison said: “The award recognises the exceptional service to cricket in a variety of roles over a significant period.

NEPL Umpire Brian Heaton, one of the officials awarded ties for 25 years service to the game.

“We were delighted to be able to present each recipient with their tie and I look forward to making this an annual occurrence for our members.”

Former Durham Senior League and North East Premier League Umpire Jack McGurk said:” The decision 30 years ago to take up umpiring was one of the best I have ever made, I have made many life long friends and seen some of the best players in the world from the ‘best seat in the house.”

Once retiring from umpiring Jack continued with his love for the sport becoming Durham Cricket Academy scorer.

North East Premier League Umpire Joe Tyson began umpiring over 25 years ago after playing cricket from the age of 8 at his home club Percy Main before spells with Swalwell, Reyrolles and Wark ending his career at Felling.

Tyson added: ” Due to age and injuries I decided to take up umpiring and there is no better place to continue enjoying the game.

“I have had numerous highlights in my career including standing in important league games and cup finals.

“One highlight was umpiring at Emirates Riverside.

“I also umpired Stockton v Newcastle in the Premier Division where Ben Stokes featured in the Newcastle line up.

“Also a helicopter landed on the field at Hetton Lyons without warning, which was a memorable moment.”